Wellington, 24 November (Daily Kiran). New Zealand have announced their 14-member squad for the first Test against West Indies, scheduled to begin on 2 December at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. The biggest highlight is the return of Kane Williamson, who missed the Test series against Zimbabwe in July and is set to appear in a Test match for the first time since December last year. As part of his preparation, Williamson will also play for Northern Districts in the second round of the Plunket Shield.
Fast bowlers Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes and Blair Tickner have been included in the squad. Duffy and Foulkes made their Test debuts against Zimbabwe, with Foulkes delivering an impressive 9/75 — the best figures by any New Zealander on Test debut. Tickner returns to the Test setup for the first time since March 2023.
All-rounder Daryl Mitchell is also part of the squad after recovering from a groin injury sustained during the first ODI against West Indies.
Meanwhile, Kyle Jamieson and Glenn Phillips are yet to regain full fitness and continue to follow controlled red-ball return-to-play plans. Matt Fisher, Will O’Rourke and Ben Sears are also working their way back from calf, back and hamstring injuries respectively.
Head coach Rob Walter expressed delight at Williamson’s return, saying, “Kane’s ability speaks for itself. His skill and leadership are extremely important for the Test team.”
New Zealand Squad (First Test):
Tom Latham (Captain), Tom Blundell (Wicketkeeper), Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Kane Williamson, Will Young.
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